Sam Levine
Donald Trump revealed that Rupert Murdoch and his son Lachlan Murdoch are likely to participate in the consortium aiming to acquire TikTok’s US operations, during a Sunday interview.
During an appearance on Fox News’ The Sunday Briefing with Peter Doocy, Trump was questioned about the progress of the TikTok sale. While officials from his administration have hinted that a deal is near completion, details remain somewhat unclear.
Trump mentioned that tech magnates Larry Ellison and Michael Dell are also involved, before adding, “I hate to break it to you – a man named Lachlan is part of this. You know who Lachlan is? That’s Lachlan Murdoch, a rather distinctive name.”
He continued, “Rupert is expected to join the group as well. I believe they’ll be part of the team, along with a few others. These are outstanding individuals, highly respected, and true American patriots who deeply care about this country. I’m confident they’ll handle this responsibility well.”
According to CNN, this acquisition would involve Fox Corporation as an investor group rather than Rupert and Lachlan Murdoch acting individually.
A bipartisan group of US lawmakers visited Beijing on Monday, marking the first delegation from the House of Representatives to China in six years, with discussions focused on enhancing military-to-military dialogue and broader exchanges.
The delegation was led by Adam Smith, the senior Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, which supervises the Department of Defense and the US armed forces.
Smith emphasized the importance of regular communication, stating, “We are the first House delegation since 2019, and we strongly believe that more frequent visits and deeper conversations are essential.”
He added, “Our goal is to open channels of dialogue, especially concerning military affairs,” as reported by a pool organized by the US embassy in Beijing.
Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun described the visit as a positive step forward in strengthening bilateral communication between the two nations.
The Trump administration is anticipated to announce on Monday a controversial link between the use of Tylenol by pregnant women and an increased risk of autism, a claim that contradicts current medical advice, according to a Washington Post report.
Additionally, officials are expected to unveil plans to investigate the potential of leucovorin as a treatment for autism, based on information from four anonymous sources familiar with the matter.
Medical authorities currently regard Tylenol-known as acetaminophen in the US and paracetamol internationally-as safe for expectant mothers.
Trump hinted at this forthcoming announcement during the memorial for conservative activist Charlie Kirk on Sunday, telling attendees, “I believe we have found a solution to autism.” The day before, he described the announcement as “one of the most significant actions we will undertake.”
Morning Briefing
Welcome to today’s live coverage of US political developments. I’m Tom Ambrose, here to guide you through the latest updates.
Donald Trump honored Charlie Kirk as a “true American hero” and a “martyr for liberty” during a memorial gathering on Sunday evening, attended by numerous conservative figures.
The tribute event for Kirk, whom Trump credits with significantly influencing his 2024 presidential campaign success, attracted tens of thousands of attendees.
“Charlie has become a martyr for the cause of American freedom,” Trump declared, paying homage to the 31-year-old activist. “I believe I speak for everyone here when I say Charlie’s legacy will never fade, and history will remember him forever.”
Kirk’s tragic assassination on September 10 at a Utah university campus has ignited intense discussions about political violence, civility, and the boundaries of free speech amid a deeply polarized climate.
According to the Associated Press, the memorial began with prayers and the booming sound of Christian rock music at the Arizona Cardinals’ stadium, blending the atmosphere of a large-scale church service with that of a political rally.
In a heartfelt speech, Kirk’s widow, Erika, expressed solace in knowing her husband departed this life without regrets and extended forgiveness to the accused perpetrator.
Closing the ceremony, Trump noted that Kirk “never harbored hatred for his adversaries” and “wished them well,” a sentiment Trump admitted he struggled to share.
“That’s where Charlie and I differed. I despise my opponents and do not wish them well,” Trump confessed. “Erika, I’m sorry.”
For a detailed account, you can read our full report here:
Additional news highlights:
- At the memorial for Charlie Kirk, Donald Trump reunited with billionaire Elon Musk, his former advisor with whom he had a very public falling out, sparking rumors of a possible reconciliation. The two exchanged greetings and conversation. Musk previously headed Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which aimed to streamline federal agencies during the early phase of Trump’s second term.
- The Trump administration is poised to link prenatal use of Tylenol (paracetamol) to autism risk, a stance that contradicts established medical advice, according to the Washington Post. Officials also plan to announce research into leucovorin as a potential autism treatment, based on insider information.
- The US criticized recent recognitions of a Palestinian state by allies such as the UK, Australia, and Canada as “symbolic gestures.” A State Department spokesperson emphasized that the US prioritizes substantive diplomacy focused on hostage releases, Israel’s security, and regional peace free from Hamas influence.
- Trump confirmed that Rupert and Lachlan Murdoch are expected to be part of the group acquiring TikTok’s US operations. This was revealed during an interview on Fox News.
- Trump announced his intention to appoint former attorney Lindsey Halligan as US attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. This follows a dramatic public demand for his attorney general to intensify legal actions against senior officials he views as political adversaries.
